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The Asian Art Museum in San Francisco is playing host to an incredible exhibit this spring. Called China’s Terracotta Warriors: The First Emperor’s Legacy, it’s a stunning collection of figures from the burial complex/tomb of Qin Shi Huang (259-210 BCE). Known as “The First Emperor”, Qin Shi Huang’s tomb was “guarded” by some 7,000 of these life-sized figures.

Ten of these impressive statues have been placed on display at the Asian Art Museum, and are sure to be a big draw throughout the spring. The story alone is incredible — the warriors were among thousands of terracotta “soldiers” found in an underground citadel filled with jewelry, gold, gardens, and more. They are thought to have been the First Emperor’s attempt at protecting him in the afterlife.

The attention to detail in the terracotta warriors is remarkable — each of the archers, infantrymen, generals, weapons, horses and more found in the burial complex is unique. The intricacies of the carving practically bring the terracotta warriors to life.

It’s impossible to visit Santa Monica Beach without seeing all sorts of people getting their fit on. Whether you like to run, walk, swim, surf or pump iron, it’s the place to be.

Santa Monica Beach is, in essence, at the heart of the fitness revolution that swept across North America over the last few decades. Located just south of the Santa Monica Pier, Muscle Beach was the origin of bodybuilding culture, and is still a big part of that — both on the sand and at neighboring gyms.

If dumbbells and chin-ups aren’t your thing, Santa Monica Beach is also the perfect destination to hone your surfing skills. With a number of surf shops and clinics around, you’ll be taking to the waves in no time, board in hand and spirits high.

Prefer to stay on dry land? Rent a bicycle and cruise up and down the beach, taking in the sand and sun on your own terms. Throw on your running shoes and hit the miles of paths, or simply meander up and down the beach.

While Boston often comes to mind first as the key American city when it comes to St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, Chicago has a similarly large Irish population, and also does a pretty fine job celebrating all things Irish.

As part of a fifty-year-old tradition, the Chicago River will once again be dyed green at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 16th, and will kick off a day of festivities in the city that spans pubs, halls, lounges and more. Always an incredible site, the Chicago River is even more spectacular than usual on St. Patrick’s Day.

Held on the same day, the city’s St. Patrick’s Day parade kicks off at noon, and draws thousands of spectators. It’s a massive event that snakes its way through the city, and celebrates Irish culture in Chicago. It features a parade queen, marching bands, floats and much more.

Celebrate the Emerald Isle and Irish culture this St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago — it’s truly an unforgettable experience.

Getting away alone, with a loved one or with family offers more than just relief from the daily grind — it’s a chance to take in the sights, smells and sounds of somewhere new, or to revisit a favorite destination.

In many ways, the gift of a holiday — whether for yourself or a loved one — is the perfect present. For shopping, sightseeing, soaking in the sun or seeing a show, there are so many options for travelers to get away from home and unwind. The flavors of the area are captured in incredible cuisine, killer cocktails and hopping nightlife.

A holiday is a gift that keeps giving long after it’s over — the sights and sounds may exist in the past once travelers get home, but the memories, the feelings and the pictures live on as reminders of those special times. Whether you’re giving such an important gift or indulging for yourself, a holiday is a chance to make memories that last long after you’re back at home.

Every year, the biggest New Year’s Eve party goes down at Rebar in the Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago. And while the theme changes every year — it’s always inspired by a classic film — the attention to detail in this New Year’s experience stays the same.

What better way to ring in the New Year in Chicago than with a tip of the hat to the film and songs inspired by the city? The 2002 film Chicago won six Oscars for its big-screen portrayal of the 1975 musical of the same name.

Like the film and musical, Rebar will transport guests back to the roaring ‘20s. Inspired by the vaudeville leanings of the big-screen production, expect hopping jazz music, brilliant costumes and plenty of festivities as you count down the hours and minutes until midnight. Rebar’s chic atmosphere and extensive cocktail list is the perfect setting to say goodbye to 2012, ring in 2013… and all that jazz.

What better way to kick off the New Year than at one of the biggest football games of the year? Miami’s Sun Life Stadium plays host to the 2013 Discover Orange Bowl, which sees the Northern Illinois Huskies take on the Florida State Seminoles.

One of the longest-running bowl championships in American college football, the Discover Orange Bowl’s history dates back to the mid-1930s. Held on or around New Year’s Day every year since, South Beach comes alive with locals and visitors both keen on taking in the sights and sounds of the game, as well as nearby festivities and more.

Last year’s 70-33 rout of Clemson by West Virginia was one of the Discover Orange Bowl’s most entertaining matches, and this year’s game promises to be just as much fun. With both the home team Florida State Seminoles and visiting Northern Illinois Huskies boasting impressive records this year, the game promises to be a hard-fought affair. It’s college football at its finest, played in beautiful South Beach. Get ready for kickoff!

Is there any better way to usher in the holidays than by skating on the famous rink at Rockefeller Center? New York City’s most well known ice surface is a great spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Strap on some skates and enjoy winter in Manhattan at its best. Whether you’re a top-notch skater or are just starting out, The Rink at Rockefeller Center is a truly unique New York holiday experience. Open from the crack of dawn until the wee hours, new skaters can get lessons, rent skates, and sharpen their skating skills. The rink gets busy during the day, so hit the ice early (or late) to avoid the crowds and lineups. Bring a date or the whole family for a magical holiday experience you won’t soon forget. Zip around the rink then catch your breath sitting next to the city’s most iconic Christmas tree, before enjoying a rink side cup of hot chocolate. Or make your rounds on the ice, then treat yourself to a meal at one of New York City’s incredible restaurants located nearby.